Associate – General Insurance & Commercial Disputes

This role sits within a leading global law firm's Melbourne office, offering the opportunity to work across a broad range of commercial disputes and contentious insurance matters. The practice handles high-value, strategic claims, including professional indemnity, directors' and officers' liability, product and public liability, and large-scale multi-party litigation. The client base spans major Australian and London market underwriters as well as large corporations.

As an Associate, you will work closely with partners and senior lawyers, assisting on complex matters, liaising directly with clients, and contributing to business development. The team fosters a collaborative, collegiate culture with strong mentoring and career development support. This is an excellent opportunity for someone from a general disputes or insurance litigation background to join a globally connected practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Assisting partners on complex, large-scale litigation and insurance claims, including professional indemnity, D&O, construction, and product/public liability matters.
• Managing case files, preparing legal documents, and providing strategic advice to clients.
• Supervising junior lawyers and managing e-discovery and electronic data collection processes.
• Liaising directly with regional and global clients, building trusted adviser relationships.
• Supporting business development initiatives and contributing to the team's growth.

Candidate Profile

• Australian qualified (or dual-qualified) with experience in a leading national or international firm.
• Prior experience in litigation and defending claims in courts and tribunals in Australia.
• Strong technical skills and a commitment to excellence.
• Commercially aware, with confidence in building client relationships.
• A team player with a keen interest in professional development and contributing to a high-performing team.

Why Join?

• Hybrid work flexibility – balance remote and in-office work.
• Additional leave – 5 extra days of paid leave per year for senior lawyers.
• Transparent and generous bonus and referral schemes.
• Dedicated mentoring, global training, and career development programs.
• Wellbeing benefits – $750 annual allowance for wellness activities plus a wellbeing day.
• Inclusive parental leave – six months fully paid for all parents.
• Global mobility – opportunities to work across international offices.
• A values-driven culture that celebrates diversity, pro bono work, and environmental sustainability.

• Australian qualified (or dual-qualified) solicitor.
• Experience in general disputes and insurance litigation, ideally within a leading national or international firm.
• Demonstrated ability to handle complex, high-value claims and multi-party litigation.
• Strong legal research, drafting, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and client liaison skills.
• Ability to supervise junior lawyers and manage e-discovery processes.
• Commitment to technical excellence and professional development.
• Commercial awareness and proactive approach to business development.